Leaking Tap Solutions: How to Stop Drips and Save Water

DIY Fixes for Minor Leaks

Sometimes, you can sort out a leaky tap yourself. Here are a few things to try:

• Tighten the Tap: If your tap is slightly loose, try tightening it with a spanner. Be gentle – you don’t want to overtighten and cause more problems.
• Replace the Washer: For more confident DIYers, replacing a worn washer can often stop leaks. You’ll need to turn off your water supply, disassemble the tap, and swap out the old washer for a new one.
• Check the O-ring: If the leak comes from around the handle, the O-ring might be the problem. These can be replaced relatively easily.

When to Call the Professionals

While some tap troubles can be sorted with some elbow grease, others need professional plumbing solutions. Here’s when you should give New Vision Plumbers a bell:

Complex Leaks

If tightening or replacing the washer doesn’t fix the problem, there might be a more complex issue, like a worn valve seat or internal corrosion, which requires professional tools and expertise to repair correctly.

Damage to the Tap Body

If the tap is cracked or damaged, it’s usually best to replace the whole thing. A damaged tap body can lead to hidden leaks inside the walls or under the sink, potentially causing more extensive water damage.

Multiple Leaking Taps

If you have leaks in several taps, your plumbing system might have an underlying issue, such as high water pressure, deteriorating pipes, or a malfunctioning pressure regulator, that needs to be addressed to prevent widespread problems.

Lack of DIY Confidence

If you’re uncomfortable removing your tap, it’s best to leave it to the experts. A slight mistake can lead to stripped threads, broken components, or a more extensive leak, so we recommend calling us to save you the hassle and potential extra costs!